2)¨**********APA norms __________________________________________________________ The gerontological nurse working in a long-term care facility is responsible to administer psychoactive medications for older adults for conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or psychosis. 1) Select one class of drug or 1 medication used for the treatment of the mentioned conditions 2) discuss important nursing considerations (at least three) when given this medication due to its side effects, drug interaction or food interaction
Introduction
The administration of psychoactive medications for older adults in long-term care facilities is a critical responsibility of gerontological nurses. These medications are prescribed for the treatment of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. This paper will discuss important nursing considerations when administering a specific class of drug or medication for the treatment of these conditions.
Class of Drug: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are a commonly prescribed class of medications used in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, and other related conditions. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and escitalopram (Lexapro). These medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms associated with depression and anxiety (Harmer et al., 2017).
Nursing Considerations
When administering SSRIs to older adults, several important nursing considerations should be taken into account. These considerations revolve around potential side effects, drug interactions, and food interactions. The following are three important nursing considerations when administering SSRIs to older adults:
1. Side Effects
SSRIs can cause several side effects, and it is essential for nurses to be aware of these potential adverse reactions. Common side effects of SSRIs include nausea, diarrhea, drowsiness, sexual dysfunction, and weight gain (Harmer et al., 2017). Older adults may be more susceptible to these side effects due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and increased sensitivity to medications (Midão et al., 2017). Nurses should carefully monitor older adults for any signs of side effects and report them promptly to healthcare providers for appropriate management.
Additionally, SSRIs have been associated with an increased risk of falls and fractures in older adults (Demontis et al., 2018). Therefore, nurses should prioritize fall prevention strategies, such as ensuring a safe environment, encouraging mobility, and providing appropriate assistive devices. Regular monitoring of bone mineral density and vitamin D levels may also be warranted to identify and manage any potential osteoporosis-related complications.
2. Drug Interactions
SSRIs can interact with other medications, leading to potential adverse reactions or decreased efficacy. Nurses should have a comprehensive understanding of the medications that older adults are taking to identify possible interactions. For instance, SSRIs can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with certain other medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or serotonergic agents (Harmer et al., 2017). Nurses should be familiar with the contraindications and potential drug interactions of SSRIs to avoid potential harm to older adults.
Furthermore, some medications, such as warfarin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may interact with SSRIs and increase the risk of bleeding (Thomsen et al., 2017). It is crucial for nurses to monitor older adults for any signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising or bleeding gums, and report them promptly to prevent complications.
3. Food Interactions
Certain foods and beverages can interact with SSRIs, affecting their absorption and metabolism. For instance, grapefruit juice can inhibit the enzyme responsible for breaking down SSRIs, leading to increased drug levels and potential toxicity (Harmer et al., 2017). Nurses should educate older adults about the potential food interactions with SSRIs and advise them to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking these medications.
Conclusion
Administering psychoactive medications, such as SSRIs, to older adults in long-term care facilities requires careful consideration of potential side effects, drug interactions, and food interactions. Nurses play a crucial role in monitoring older adults for adverse reactions, evaluating potential drug interactions, and providing appropriate education. By understanding these important nursing considerations, gerontological nurses can ensure the safe and effective administration of medications to older adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or psychosis.